Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho conduct tributes to the former Porto captain Jorge Costa

Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho are among those who paid tribute to the captain of Porto, the captain of the Champions League, Jorge Costa, who died at the age of 53 after undergoing a cardiac arrest on the training ground of the Portuguese club.

Costa, who led Porto to the glory of the UEFA Cup in 2003 and a triumph of the Champions League a year later under Mourinho, was in his second season as director of football of the Liga Portugal Club. He was transported urgently to hospital but could not be saved.

The defender obtained 50 ceilings for the national team of Portugal and amassed more than 500 senior career appearances, the majority playing for Porto.

Ronaldo paid tribute to his compatriot on social networks, publishing a photo of Costa with the line “Maid Semper Jorge Costa”, which translates into “until eternity” or “always”.

Fenerbahce’s boss, Mourinho, who pushed tears back at a press conference before the qualification link in the Champions League of his team against Feyenoord on Wednesday, “said:” I am very sad. This is part of my story that happens.

“If he could speak with me now, he would say” make your press conference, play the game tomorrow and win the game – forget me “.

“I will try to do my job today and tomorrow, then I will cry afterwards.”

Costa won 24 trophies in her time in Porto, including eight titles Primeira Liga. He was one of the six players to win five consecutive Portuguese high level league championships.

He had a brief spell in England with Charlton Athletic, making 26 appearances after his loan during the 2001/2002 season.

“Throughout his life, on and off the field, Jorge Costa embodied the values that define FC Porto: dedication, leadership, passion and an unshakable spirit of conquest,” said Porto in a press release. “He left his mark on generations of fans and has become a symbol of portism.”

“The legacy of Jorge Costa will always remain alive in memory of all Porto fans. You will never be forgotten, captain.”

Two other former Porto players and Portugal, Deco and Pepe also paid tribute to the player.

Déco called Costa one of the “greatest symbols” of Portuguese football, adding: “It was an honor to share so many titles and joys with you. Your name will remain forever. My condolences to the whole family. “

Meanwhile, Pepe said: “Your dedication and heritage will always live in the unmatched history of FC Porto victories. Rest in peace, Jorge Costa.”